Congats on a great rifle. I have been using a Marlin 1895 in 45-70 since the early 90's and they are very popular here in Alaska. If I was limited to one lever action rifle it would be the Marlin 45-70 as it can be loaded to suit most situations, I only run heavy Alaska Bullet Works bullets in mine. Lots of bears like the same moose and salmon I like. But, ii I was state side I would try to find a bunch of the discontinued 300 grain Noslers.
Marlin hit a home run with that model in that 45-70 round. Now take a hard look at the Skinner peep sight set up that is milled for Talley/Warne medium height scope rings. One can scope if desired and quickly remove scope and toss in a pack and hunt with peep sight.
My preferred range set up is a good set of shooting sticks. You will quickly find out why if you fire heavy loads from the bench. Shoot the heck out of it Pard!
